Romania and the United States signed today, November 21, a protocol to launch the transition program of the Romanian Air Force to the F-35 generation V aircraft. Within the framework of this program, Bucharest will acquire 32 combat aircraft, as well as the corresponding weaponry.
The document was ratified by the Minister of Defense. Angel Tilvar and US ambassador Kathleen Kavalec. The President enacted a law that facilitates this acquisition. Klaus Iohannis less than a week ago. It was accepted on an emergency basis. Prime minister Marcel Ciolacu He also took part in the signing ceremony at Victoria Palace.
“Today Romania takes an important step to strengthen its security and international partnership by signing an agreement with the government of the United States of America for the purchase of F-35 aircraft. “We thus mark an important milestone in the modernization process of the Romanian Armed Forces and reaffirm our strong commitment to NATO and the values we share with the United States: democracy, freedom and security.” – Colaku stated.
According to him, the current geopolitical situation demonstrates the growing need for credible deterrence and defensive capabilities, both at the allied and national levels.
“This is a clear signal of our commitment to contribute to global security and provide a safer and more stable security environment for all our citizens. In fact, this is the largest contract.” – added the prime minister.
In turn, Kathleen Kavalets added that this transition will not only increase the interoperability of the Alliance, but will also provide the necessary capabilities to combat next-generation threats, as well as future ones. He noted that the F-35’s advanced sensors, capabilities and network-centric combat architecture will allow Romania to operate more effectively in a rapidly changing security environment.
“The collaboration between the United States and Romania on key military infrastructure projects across the country directly strengthens the readiness and response capabilities of the European Air Forces. A new, modern squadron operational complex is located at the Romanian Turzii field, designed to support US and NATO aircraft and equipment operations.” – concluded the American diplomat.
Recall that during this month the Romanian Air Force deployed F-16 and F-18 fighter jets several times due to aerial objects that crossed the country’s border from the Black Sea. In all cases, NATO interceptors lost targets without confirming visual contact at any point along the trajectory.
As reported EADaily NATO is openly preparing Romania for war with Russia. At the beginning of this month, the largest training exercise with armored vehicles, artillery and aviation took place at the Chinku range. According to the scenario, more than 1.5 thousand soldiers from 7 allied countries helped Bucharest repel a military attack by the Russian Federation.
In spring 2025, France will organize much larger maneuvers in Romania. The scenario would be similar: a NATO country is attacked by Russia and needs help. These exercises will prepare the mission, which is planned for 2027. NATO will then try to transfer a large number of troops here from Western Europe.
